The Carolina Hurricanes have bolstered their roster by securing forward Martin Necas with a two-year, $13 million deal. This contract extension ensures that the talented forward will remain with the Hurricanes through the 2025-26 season, stabilizing a key component of the team's offensive lineup.
Martin Necas, a native of Czechia, has rapidly become a cornerstone for Carolina. Drafted in the first round in 2017, the 25-year-old has demonstrated his prowess on the ice, particularly in the past two seasons. In the 2022-23 campaign, Necas led the Hurricanes with an impressive 71 points, tallying 28 goals and 43 assists over 82 regular-season games. His performance last season was equally notable, notching 24 goals and 29 assists in 77 games.
A Vital Scoring Threat
Necas has established himself as a consistent scoring threat, especially in critical moments. Since the 2020-21 season, he has recorded nine overtime goals, tying for the NHL lead in that category. His ability to perform under pressure was also evident in the postseason, where he scored four goals in 11 games.
Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky expressed his enthusiasm for securing Necas, stating, "Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick. He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done."
Leadership Changes and Roster Shifts
The Hurricanes have undergone significant changes off the ice as well. Eric Tulsky recently assumed the role of General Manager following Don Waddell's departure to Columbus. Tulsky's tenure as GM marks a new chapter for the Hurricanes, who have consistently made playoff appearances but are striving to advance further in the postseason.
However, the team has also faced challenges in retaining key players. The departure of Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency leaves notable gaps in the lineup. Despite these exits, Tulsky's focus remains on maintaining a competitive roster, as evidenced by the extension of Necas's contract.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the Hurricanes are in active discussions to secure another vital piece of their future. Talks are ongoing with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. A young talent, Jarvis has scored 33 goals and 13 playoff goals over his first three seasons, demonstrating significant potential. Securing Jarvis could provide the Hurricanes with another potent offensive option to complement Necas and sustain the team's competitive edge.
The 2022-23 season saw the Hurricanes ousted by the New York Rangers in the second round of the playoffs. With a strengthened lineup and the backing of an experienced GM in Tulsky, the franchise aims to break through this playoff barrier and contend for a deeper run in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, the extension of Martin Necas's contract represents a strategic move by the Carolina Hurricanes to secure key talent and maintain their competitive stature. With his scoring ability and potential for further growth, Necas stands poised to be an instrumental figure in Carolina's quest for success in the seasons to come.